Ingrown Toenails

Why do they occur

The edge of the nail may curve over and dig into the skin - this may be because of its shape, because it becomes sharp at the edge or due to trauma from tight shoes. Often there is no specific cause.

Can I prevent them

Avoid tight fitting shoes. Cutting the nail straight across may prevent a spike from forming which can dig into the skin at the side.

How are they treated

Simply cutting the nail straight across may help it if mildly inflamed. If there are signs of infection or there is pus present, then professional advice should be sought. Most infections settle with a short course of antibiotics. Chiropodists may be able to advise on prevention of further problems. Anyone with diabetes should see chiropodist regularly and seek treatment by their GP urgently should they develop an infection.

Chronic ingrown toe nails with recurrent infections may require surgery.

What does surgery entail

With a wedge resection of the nail, the surgeon removes a strip of nail at the side and a small part of the nail bed. The nail will then grow straight and not grow into the skin. Usually one edge of the nail is removed. In some cases both left and right edges are removed.

To treat severe cases the surgeon may need to remove the whole nail and the complete nail bed

The surgery is a day-case procedure. It may be performed under local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic. Post-operatively a bulky dressing will be applied to the toe. This is left in place for 7 - 10 days. (Click here for surgery information)